Category: Roofing in Conroe Texas

How to Get A New Roof During COVID-19 With Some Digital Help!

The COVID-19 pandemic seems to have affected just about every industry out there, all in different ways.

Where roofing is concerned, it has made things a little challenging depending on local social distancing mandates as well as the need for at-risk people to stay isolated.

Yet roof repairs and new installation are not something that should be put off, so it is important that home and building owners still arrange for these services when necessary.

Fortunately, it’s easier than ever to get through the roofing process even in times of pandemic when working with today’s connected roofers who are using digital technology to everyone’s advantage!

Screen and Hire Roofers Without In-Person Meetings

When your shingle roof needs repairs or maybe a total replacement, you can get through the entire hiring process online without having to meet roofers face-to-face:

  1. Research Contractors Online - Look up local roofers in your area and research them via reviews, testimonials, and BBB listings. You can also call or email and ask for referrals and drive to see examples of work the contractor has done recently.
  2. Discuss With Contractors - Communicate with contractors via phone, email, or virtual meetings to talk about your roofing needs, the process, the cost, and anything else that needs discussing.
  3. Schedule Estimates - Schedule a day and time for the contractor to come to your home and write a detailed estimate of all roof work you both deem necessary. Help the process by sending photos from inside the house if those are needed.
  4. Review and Finalize - Once you have the estimates, discuss them with the roofer especially warranties, then choose a roofer to take care of roofing needs.
  5. Schedule a Date - After all the discussion and estimating is complete, schedule a work date with the roofer so they can take care of the rest.

Many of these steps concerning a new roof or roofing repairs are no different than what you would normally do.

With the addition of virtual meetings and doing the majority of the communication online or by phone, you can choose a contractor and get service scheduled quickly without ever having to meet face-to-face until the day the roofer comes to actually do the roofing work.

Even then, it isn’t necessary to let anyone into your house, just step outside and maintain social distancing.

Choose Roofing Products Online

An important part of getting a new shingle roof is choosing the shingles.

The good news is that you can also pick out roofing material online:

  • Online Product Information – Most shingle manufacturers keep their products listed online with clear images, color selectors, and important features listed to help you see them and decide which is best for your roofing.
  • Home Design Software - Some of these makers even include free designing software on their sites that allow you to visualize color schemes in 3D to estimate what different colored shingles would look like on your roof.
  • Shingle Color Samples - You can also request printed color samples to be sent from the manufacturer to confirm color appearances to see the true color for your roof in person.
  • Actual Shingle Samples - A shingle roofer may be able to drop off samples of a few shingles to help you make a decision.

Don’t Let A Pandemic Stop Getting A New Roof

COVID-19 may stop us from doing some things right now; however, there is no reason why it should delay roofing repairs or putting on that new shingle roof if it is time.

Delaying this kind of work could result in additional damage to your roof and a more expensive roofing job.

Thankfully, shingle roofers are among those considered to be providing an essential service, so there shouldn’t be any problem finding a contractor to come out and do the work for you.

Where social distancing is concerned, it is very easy to go through the contractor selection, work estimation process, and even choosing roofing materials online or with limited or no face-to-face contact and have the roof you want without delay!

Looking At Shingle Roofing in Conroe Texas?

Contact Roofers Conroe About Shingle Roof Concerns!

Call (936) 209-2162 Today!

Practical Reasons For Having New Roofing Installed!

If you are debating whether to invest in a new roofing installation now or to put it off as long as you can, you should know that there are multiple reasons why hiring roofers to do it now makes more sense than waiting.

Whether your installation is suffering from ongoing roof maintenance issues or is simply nearing its suggested retirement age, consider the less obvious but equally important reasons why replacing the roof on your home or building now is more practical than continuing to put it off.

1. Prevent Unnecessary Damage

An old roofing installation that needs to be replaced could be contributing to undetected structural damage.

Even when regular roof maintenance has been done and repairs have been made as needed, there comes a time when the possibility of accumulating damage due to these repeated minor problems must be recognized.

Rather than end up with a much larger repair bill to fix structural or other issues, invest in a new roof and stop it all.

2. Increase Property Value

The age and condition of the roof is an important factor when determining property value.

The more work a home or building needs, the less it is worth.

When you choose to call roofers before a property value assessment, the appraised value of your building will be much higher, sometimes even higher than the cost of the roof itself.

Alternatively, a bad roof can disproportionately reduce value.

3. Create More Curb Appeal

Appearance matters, whether it is a house in a neighborhood or a business location somewhere.

Newer roofing installations always produce a more attractive and well-kept appearance that stands out and relays the message that a home or building is maintained and there is owner pride.

4. Improve Energy Efficiency

According to experienced roofers, as a roof ages the less energy efficient the materials become as they slowly degrade over time.

Add to this the idea that roofing materials are continually being improved and made more environmentally friendly and energy efficiency could be improved considerably by investing in a new installation sooner rather than later.

5. Better Materials and Warranties

In the 20+ years that even shorter-lived roofing materials may last, many new and improved products that last longer and perform better will be introduced.

Replacing older materials with newer ones reduces your need to hire roofers to do increasing amounts of roof maintenance since today’s materials are of better quality.

Today’s materials also carry better and longer warranties.

6. Sell Faster

If trying to sell your home or building, one of the most attractive features that will help property sell faster is a new roofing installation.

Between the benefits of improved appearance and curb appeal, increased property value, energy-efficiency, and longer-lasting, higher-performing materials, the property will attract more interest and sell faster than if left with an old roof that is already aging.

7. Home Health and Comfort

With a new roof, issues are eliminated like attic dampness and mold growth that can affect indoor air quality, increase allergies, and cause various respiratory illnesses.

An energy-efficient, high-performing roof also makes it easier to keep the interior of a home or building at a comfortable temperature in all seasons.

Ready to Get That New Roofing Installation?

With so many important reasons illustrating the importance and practicality of a new roof, what are you waiting for?

Whether selling, dealing with too much roof maintenance and repairs, wanting to reduce utility bills, or just desiring a home or building to look nicer, all of these things can be resolved at once when you call a roofer for a new roof!

Looking for Roofers in Conroe Texas?

Contact Roofers Conroe for Your New Roofing Installation!

Call (936) 209-2162 for More Info!

Looking at Roofing Material – Are Any Really Sustainable?

The earth’s environment is suffering more each year due to pollution, destruction of habitats, and many other practices that are changing the planet forever.

In response to this problem, many manufacturers of building supplies including those producing roofing materials have begun designing products that are more environmentally friendly.

The question is, are those products sustainable, too?

If you’re looking for a truly environmentally sound roof, pay attention to sustainability while choosing your materials.

What Is Sustainability?

Though they are related, sustainability is not the same thing as environmental friendliness to which it is commonly confused with and compared.

A sustainable natural material like on a roof is one that’s sourced in ways that does not deplete a natural source or environment of that material.

It’s a method of harvesting what is essentially an unlimited material as long as the land is left undamaged so that material can continue to replenish itself.

Environmentally-Friendly Roofing Materials Vs. Sustainable Ones

Sustainable raw materials are environmentally-friendly, but not all environmentally-friendly materials are sustainable.

In terms of roofing materials, it has the most to do with natural materials that have to be grown or harvested, how quickly they replenish, and what is being done throughout the world to keep those resources replenishing.

Environmentally-friendly materials used by roofers include those that have a reduced carbon footprint.

Many are more thermo-effective, reducing the utility costs and the pollution made from creating energy while others are made of materials that can either be recycled and used again or buried to decompose naturally and become a part of the soil.

Durability and longer life expectancy, and cleaner production practices all contribute to environmental-friendliness; however, most of these products are still not sustainable.

What Sustainable Roofing Products Are Available Today?

While there are quite a few environmentally-friendly roofing materials available today, the list of products that are truly sustainable is fairly small.

Materials that must be mined for or are made using petroleum products are not sustainable as those are non-replenishable resources.

Products made from cement are also not sustainable due to the pollution generated to produce it.

There is debate over whether shingles made from clay are sustainable and manufacturers claim that since it is a nearly unlimited material, it is as close to sustainable as anything can be.

What truly sustainable materials are available?

Wood shakes and shingles are the most sustainable roof materials out there, since trees can be harvested and then regrown.

Of course, the degree of sustainability depends on the type of wood, where it’s harvested, and whether it’s being sustainably replanted; however, overall wood is considered sustainable.

Other materials that are considered as nearly sustainable due to their ability to be recycled and how they are produced include metals like steel, aluminum, copper, and as mentioned above clay tiles.

Green, or living roofs are also considered sustainable, especially when used to reduce utility bills and grow food and other vegetation.

Beyond these options, the higher the percentage of recycled content in a product, the more sustainable it is as it reduces the amount of new resources that must be sourced.

Sustainable Roofing Materials Scarce, But Available

There is more to environmental-friendliness and roofs than just recyclability and biodegradability.

Sustainability is another issue to consider when shopping for the materials used by roofers.

Though truly sustainable materials are rare, sticking with eco-friendly products containing the highest amount of recycled materials is the best alternative for roofing products!

Want a Sustainable Roof in Conroe Texas?

Contact the Roofing Experts at Roofers Conroe Now!

Call (936) 209-2162 for More Info!

Will Your Roofing Material Last A Long Time?

Roofs are expensive, probably the most expensive single component on any building.

Costing tens of thousands of dollars even for a less expensive version, you surely want to invest in a roof that’s going to last a while.

Do you know how long yours will last?

Though every type of roofing material comes with a suggested lifespan, there is a lot more at stake when projecting just how long yours will continue to protect your house or work building!

Roofing Material Lifespan

Different roofing materials have different lifespans, which is a highly important consideration when you’re having a new one installed by qualified roofers because it really is a case of you get what you pay for.

Less expensive roofing materials in most cases are not going to last as long as higher quality but more expensive materials in their class, so keep that in mind when choosing.

To get an idea of how long your roof could last in ideal conditions, start by looking at the suggested lifespan for different popular materials as suggested by the manufacturers:

  • Various Types of Asphalt Shingles - Ranges from 20 to 40+ years depending on product.
  • Wood Shingles and Shakes - Shingles up to 30 years, shakes up to 40 years.
  • Clay, Ceramic, Concrete - 50 years or more.
  • Slate - Up to 100 years or more.
  • Metal Shingles or Panels - 40 to 70 years, sometimes more.
  • BUR Roofing - 20 to 30 years.
  • Asphalt Roll Roofing - 5 to 10 years.
  • Rubber - EPDM roofing 15 to 25 years, TPO roofing 10 to 20 years, recycled rubber shingles 50 to 75 years.

Workmanship

When guesstimating the lifespan of any type of roof, it’s important to understand that projected lifespans as stated by the manufacturer are how long the material should last under ideal conditions.

For starters, this means that the material was correctly applied by skilled roofers who have followed the manufacturer’s installation instructions so the materials are properly laid and stay secure.

Poor workmanship can significantly decrease the lifespan of any roof, which is why it’s so important to hire a reputable and knowledgeable contractor to install yours.

Maintenance and Repairs

The second important factor that can affect how long your roof actually does last in spite of whatever the manufacturer suggests is how well you take care of it.

All roofs need some maintenance, which varies; some like architectural shingles need very little while others like wood shingles need a lot more.

Keeping up with maintenance will ensure your roofing stays in great condition and lasts its full lifespan.

Regular inspections will detect problem areas if followed by prompt roofer repairs to correct those problem areas to maintain your roof and prevent it from wearing out before its time.

Will Your Roof Last A Long Time?

Other than inexpensive asphalt roll roofing, most roofs will last at least two decades.

While that may seem like a long time, time flies before you realize it and replacing any roof whether a home or a business is expensive.

How long will yours actually last?

That will depend on the materials used, how they were installed, and the kind of care your roof receives throughout its lifetime.

If you choose wisely, work with a qualified roofer, and perform proper maintenance, yours should last as long as its suggested lifespan or even longer!

Need To Have A New Roof Installed?

Roofers Conroe Provides Expert Roofing Services!

Call Them at (936) 209-2162 Today!

How To Tell If Your Roof Leak Is Serious!

Roof leaks are sneaky; small leaks can be deceiving, leading you to believe there is some time before you need to call a roofing service to get them out to take care of it.

While that may be true sometimes, there’s a higher possibility it’s more serious than you realize.

Even seemingly small leaks could reveal a problem much worse than you’d expect, one that ends up needing extensive roof repairs or even a roofing replacement.

Rather than ending up in that type of situation, inspect any leak you find a little closer before assuming there is plenty of time to get it fixed.

If you notice any of these signs, that leak is potentially serious and has likely been there longer than you think!

1. Water Stains or Spots

The top sign that you have a leak that requires the attention of a roofer and it’s been there for a while is the evidence of water stains on the inside of your attic or water spotting on the exterior of your house.

Stains on beams, flooring, and even the contents of your attic suggest an ongoing, sneaky leak that has evaded you for a while.

Spotting on the exterior of the house underneath the eaves is another indication of leaking that’s been happening for a while.

You might be surprised at the extent of the damage uncovered by a roofing contractor if the leak has been present for quite a while.

2. Damage Inside the House

Another big sign that you need to call a roofing company in a hurry is if interior damage appears like

  • Buckling and peeling paint or wallpaper.
  • Sagging or stained ceiling.
  • Moisture or stains on the walls.
  • Attic insulation that’s disintegrating.
  • Other moisture-related damage.

all of which are a prime indicator that you’ve had a leak for some time.

This kind of damage does not happen overnight and should be remedied as soon as possible before it gets worse.

3. Mold, Mildew, and Other Growth

The presence of moisture in your home in spite of a fully-functioning HVAC system is another big indicator of a leak that’s been there for a while.

Unhealthy mold in attic corners or in the insulation as well as mildew on the roofing structure or other surfaces means there’s either water coming in from somewhere or you have a serious attic ventilation problem, both of which need to be repaired by a roofer.

If you see mold, algae, or moss growing on your roof or the exterior walls of your home, this is another sign that there is a moisture problem that needs correcting.

Untended, exterior moisture issues can lead to more leaking that can cause extensive damage both inside and outside the house.

4. Structural Damage to Roof or Foundation

A sagging roof or one that has shifted in any way is another issue that points to leaks that have been there for a while, long enough to allow the structural framework of the roof to soften and change due to rot and other water damage.

Sometimes the first indicator that your roof is causing the problem might be hairline cracks in the foundation if the roof has shifted or become too heavy from water absorption in places that you have no idea are getting wet.

5. Intermittent Leaks In Colder Weather

There’s nothing more annoying than an intermittent leak, especially if the leak is noticeable when the weather is above freezing but seems to go away when it’s below freezing.

This could mean that your shingles are suffering from a destructive condition called ice damming, which could lead to needing to have a new roofing installed.

Ice damming occurs when water gets under the shingles for whatever reason and then freezes, expanding in that small space and further lifting shingles so they leak even more.

If the problem isn’t noticed right away, it could result in widespread damage under the shingles and a very expensive repair.

Even the Little Leaks Can Be Serious

It’s easy to get fooled into thinking that a little bit of water in the attic, a small stain, or an intermittent leak is just a minor roofing problem that can be repaired later rather than sooner.

What you might not know is that the leak is bigger or has been there much longer than you realize, in which case there’s likely a lot more damage than you realize.

Look for these signs above that your leak is more serious than you think, then prevent more extensive damage by calling a roofer at the first notice of any leak at all!

Got Leaks?

Roofers Conroe Can Fix Them!

Call (936) 209-2162 Now!

What Is The Best Way to Find A Roofer I Can Trust?

Sooner or later, every homeowner or owner of a commercial building is going to need a roofing replacement done - roofs don’t last forever!

When that time comes, do you know how to find a reliable and skilled roofer in your area to hire?

Any roof installation is costly, so it’s important to do your homework when seeking roofing services you can trust to do great workmanship and act ethically.

Use these tips on how to research roofers and find the right one for the job!

Three Ways to Find Roof Services

The first step in hiring a roofing company is compiling a list of contractors to research so you can find the one who suits your needs:

  • Ask for Local Referrals - Word of mouth is one of the best ways to find a roofing contractor who does great work. Ask friends, family, and neighbors who they recommend, then do personal research about those roofers.

  • Ask Your Insurance Company - Your homeowners insurance company surely has a list of roof repair contractors they approve and this is a great place to start, especially if you’ll be filing a claim for roof damage.

  • Search Local Business Directories - Search for local contractors on business directory websites like Google My Business, Yelp, Yellow Pages online, and even social media websites like Facebook.

Necessary Roofing Company Qualifications

Once you’ve compiled a list of roofing contractor candidates, do some further research to learn more about them and what qualifications they have to do roof replacement and repair as well as how highly recommended they are as professionals:

  • Manufacturer Designation - Material manufacturers provide free training to ensure that roofers are familiar with their products and know how to properly install them. Awarded in various contractor levels from factory-certified to elite or comparable designations, these ratings mean that a roofing contractor is recognized by the manufacturer as being capable of installing their products and are recommended over a contractor without this designation.

  • Better Business Bureau Scores - BBB scores will give you a good idea about the reputation of a roofer and the type of work they do. Look for roofing companies that have BBB listings with high ratings and avoid those with no BBB listing at all.

  • Local and/or State Licensing - If your state or locality requires roof services to maintain certain licenses, ask to see them and be sure they are current.

  • Proof of Insurance - Always ask to see proof of current insurance before hiring any contractor to work on your roof or any other part of your house or commercial building.

  • Safety Certification - Ask whether the roof contractor’s employees have received safety training and if the company has a safety certification. Not all will but it’s preferable to work with companies that do.

Other Factors to Consider

After checking all of the above information for your candidates, look into these other details to give you a more complete picture of a roofer’s business practices and what to expect from them:

  • Estimates and Warranties - If you ask for an estimate, make sure it includes all details about the work to be done including itemized cost breakdowns, additional fees, and a full explanation of everything you will be paying for as well as the types of warranties and what they specifically cover. Make sure you understand the warranty information before you agree to anything.

  • No Pressure Sales - Don’t let a roofing contractor pressure you into anything, including which material to use. Don't let them handle your insurance claim, as that’s something that is better handled by you personally.

  • Know About Roofing - Know enough about the work you need done on your roof and material choices so you can have informed discussions with roofers and understand what they are talking about.

Ready To Start Your Search?

Though it seems like an awful lot of research to do just to hire a roof repair service, it’s effort that will benefit you in the long run.

You’ll find a local qualified roof company that’s recognized for their expert work and great business reputation so you can hire a good, experienced roofer with confidence!

Need Some Information About Cool Roof Shingles?

As temperatures in Texas soar higher each summer and cooling costs rise with them, keeping your home or building cool is a priority.

The right roof installation can play a prime part in doing just that.

Cool roof shingles installed by roof services are a great choice for roofing replacement when energy efficiency, cost, and appearance are all top concerns.

But what exactly are cool roof shingles?

Understand the factors that determine the coolness of any material so you know what to look for when discussing your next roof with a local roofing company.

What Is A Cool Roof?

A cool roof is one that is designed to reflect higher amounts of UV sun rays than other ones or provide an insulating effect that prevents heat arising out of UV rays from entering your house or building.

The three main factors that dictate how cool a roof will be are:

  • R-value - R-value or reflective value is the amount of UV rays a material will reflect rather than absorb; different materials have different R-values by their natural makeup.
  • Color - Darker colors absorb more UV rays than lighter colors.
  • Insulation - Good insulation doesn't allow heat from UV rays that have passed through the external material to continue down into the structure.

Improving home efficiency involves using a combination of these three factors to create roofing material and techniques to increase R-value and decrease heat absorption.

What Are Some Cool Roof Shingle Options?

Because shingles are a preferable roofing choice for many home and building owners in various climates, roofer companies are focusing today on creating super-efficient cool materials to improve cooling efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

Of all the shingle options now available that a roof repair service can install, these are the coolest and most energy-efficient:

  • Metal Shingles - When correctly installed with the right insulation beneath it, metal has always been one of the coolest, most reflective roofing materials available. Though it hasn’t always been so attractive, you can now purchase countless styles of cool metal-looking shingles that are metal sheets pressed to mimic the traditional look of various types of shingles.
  • Premium Cool Asphalt Shingles - Asphalt shingle roofs have always been very popular and many asphalt shingle manufacturers now offer premium cool shingles designed specifically to increase reflectiveness and energy efficiency. These shingles that contain extra reflective materials to increase R-value have a much higher reflective rating than even dark-colored standard shingles.
  • Natural Shingles - Not as common and somewhat more expensive, organic shingles like ceramic, terra cotta, and concrete are naturally insulating and absorb UV rays without actually releasing them into the structure. Paired with a reflective glaze or paint coating makes these materials even more effective in keeping the spaces beneath them cool.

Which Cool Roof Shingles Are Right For You?

There are many options available now when you want an energy-efficient, cool roof; however, you also want to stick to the traditional look of shingles.

Made in many styles and colors offered at various price points, it’s recommended that you discuss your needs with roofers who are experienced with these products and can help you determine which will be the best choice for your house or building based on their efficiency and other important traits.

With your new cool shingle roof replacement installed, you’ll see the benefit in lower energy bills right away!

Low Slope Roofing – 7 Commonly Faced Problems!

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Low slope roofs are those with less than 14 degrees of angle as measured from the high point to the low side. They are most commonly used on commercial buildings but may be used on some homes as well. When properly installed and maintained by experienced roofing companies, low slope roofs can be just as functional as any other.

The reduced angle does make them more susceptible to a number of roofing problems. It is important that building owners work with experienced contractors who can perform a correct installation and monitor for these issues as time passes.

  1. Leaking - Any roof can leak; however, low slope and flat roofs are more likely to develop leaks than pitched ones. This is due to the lack of angle that allows water to sit longer on the surface. Sharper, steeper angles promote water shedding, while lower, flatter angles allow rainwater to stay longer. If there are any small surface cracks or imperfections as well as any improperly installed flashing, chances are good that a leak could develop.
  2. Tenting and Blow-Offs - It is also common for low slope roofing to experience tenting. This is when the wind blows under the surface, pushes it up, and parts of the surface can actually be blown off by air getting under it. This happens due to improper installation and sealing of the flashing. If there is a way for the wind to get in and under the surface, it will.
  3. Blistering - Blistering and other forms of surface erosion are a result of improper application of the membrane material. When the material is not properly adhered to the decking, air and moisture trapped underneath can blister up after prolonged exposure to the sun. Smaller blisters are not a major concern; however, larger ones need repairs by experienced roofing companies to prevent them from bursting and causing leaks as well as other, more significant damage.
  4. Punctures and Penetrations - Punctures can happen in high traffic areas on any low slope installation simply by walking on the roofing for any reason. Any penetrations made post-installation, like replacing or adding a new HVAC, can increase the chance of leaks at those penetration points.
  5. Water Ponding - Although low slope roofs do have a slight angle to promote water shedding, ponding can occur if there are uneven spots in the surface. These areas are then more susceptible to leaking, especially if other problems affecting the integrity of the membrane exist.
  6. Membrane Shrinkage - Membrane systems are also prone to shrinkage around the edges and penetrations as well as installed flashing. When the membrane shrinks around flashing, it invites problems like leaks and blow-offs. Roofing companies should check for evidence of shrinkage regularly and make repairs as needed.  
  7. Poor Workmanship and Repairs - Low slope surfaces can experience quite a few issues that lead to leaks and other problems simply due to poor workmanship. BUR and membrane roofs require careful attention to details for them to remain properly adhered and functional. When contractors do not pay attention to correct installation practices, problems can arise. In addition, repairs made incorrectly or the use of the wrong materials can cause or increase damage to the surface.

While low slope roofing may seem simple, it is predisposed to a number of problems that could result in considerable damage over time. To ensure the best installation of any low slope membrane roof, it is important to hire roofing companies experienced with these types of systems!

Need Low Slope Roofing in Conroe Texas?

Contact the Experts at GMA Restoration!

Call (936) 209-2162!

Understanding Different Types of Roofing Underlayment!

roofing in conroe texas

 

From the outside, the roof on a home or building may seem like a simple, protective layer of materials that keep the weather out. Yet in reality, roofing is made up of multiple layers of material that work together to protect the structure.

Underlayment is an important component used by roofing services to create the most watertight barriers over a structure. When used correctly, various types of underlayment ensure that external shingles and other materials are as protective as possible.

What Is Underlayment?

Underlayment is a watertight fabric barrier that is installed between the top layer of roofing material and the wood decking. Underlayment is rolled out over the decking and attached to create a leak-resistant, yet breathable barrier between the various layers of the roof. It is made from a variety of material and comes in different weights. It can also protect against the chemical degradation that may occur when resins in the decking react with manufactured shingles.

Some underlayment requires fasteners, while other types are self-adhering. It is manufactured in a variety of types that conform to certain climate and safety codes. So using the proper one is important to ensure the best roof installation.

Different Types of Underlayment

The primary function of all underlayment installed by roofing services is to act as a moisture barrier underneath shingles, metal panels, and all other external material. Because it is water resistant yet breathable, underlayment promotes good ventilation while helping prevent damage caused by leaks. Some installations require underlayment that possesses additional qualities to keep its moisture resistance while preventing other issues. Following are the various types of underlayment: 

  • Standard Breathable - Provides adequate leak prevention and ventilation to protect the decking and structure in most pitched roof installations. It is available in multiple weights with heavier weight products being more resilient and longer lasting for greater protection.  
  • Waterproof - Waterproof protection is provided for installations on low-slope or flat roofs as well as other areas where there is a greater chance of leaks. This material is generally used where standing or slow-draining water could be an issue or to protect in susceptible leak areas.
  • Fire Resistant - Roofing made of wood shingles or shakes requires special fire-resistant underlayment to help protect the structure in the event of a fire. For any wood roof to receive a Class A fire resistance rating, the installation must include this special fire-resistant underlayment. Besides being more protective, it may also be required by insurance companies and could qualify homeowners for a discount.
  • Ice Barrier - In climates with a lot of snow and ice where ice damming is a problem, roofing services may use a special durable underlayment designed to reduce this issue. Ice barrier underlayment is thicker. It seals and self-adheres to the decking to reduce the chance of leaks around fasteners. It requires a different installation than standard underlayment so it covers more of the decking at the top and bottom. In some instances, multiple layers may be required.

Underlayment is required in all roofing installations and should be chosen based on the local climate, roof design, and type of external material used in the installation. Roofing services should use special underlayment products designed to provide the extra protection required for more challenging usage. When used appropriately, underlayment offers both water tightness and other important protective and ventilation features as well!

Need Roofing Work Done In Conroe Texas?

GMA Restoration Offers Complete Roofing Services!

Call (936) 209-2162!

Roofing Material – What Are The 6 Different Types?

Roofing in Conroe Texas

 

A beautiful, new roof can add curb appeal and value to any home. Fortunately, there are a number of types of roofing materials available that look and function great on various architectural styles. Although not every style is recommendable for every house, homeowners can discuss the possibilities with experienced, local roofing services to make the best decision for their home.

1. Architectural Asphalt Shingles

Architectural shingles are made of layers of felt, fiberglass, and asphalt that are formed into shingles of varying widths, shapes, and colors. These shingles typically last between 25 and 40 years or more and are very durable against severe weather, making them the preferred choice in many regions. They are also readily available and easy to install. Although they may not last as long as other material, asphalt shingles offer homeowners a low-cost, attractive option that has fairly low maintenance requirements.

2. Concrete and Clay Tiles

Tiles made from clay or concrete are popular in warmer regions because they are highly thermal efficient can reduce cooling bills. They are also very beautiful, available in numerous styles and colors that add character to any home. These tiles are weather and fire resistant, although they are prone to breakage if struck by large debris. When properly installed by roofing services experienced with tile, these roofs can last a century or more. The main disadvantages of tile are the fairly high installation cost and a weight that requires sturdy framework for support.

3. Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood has been used as a roofing material almost since the beginning of putting roofs on dwellings. Both shingles and shakes which are basically thicker shingles are still desirable. Wood offers natural beauty, fading to an attractive patina depending on the species used it can also be painted. Shingles can be made in a multitude of attractive shapes and sizes. Wood shingles and shakes are highly durable and long-lived when properly maintained, although they do require quite a bit of maintenance and upkeep. Wood can also be expensive and is not at all fire-resistant. Yet for some traditional homes, wood remains a popular choice.  

4. Slate Shingles

Slate is another material that has been used for a long time due to its availability and favorable qualities. Made into shingles, it creates a durable, fire-resistant, and weather-resistant covering. Slate is also quite beautiful, available in various natural hues. Like concrete and clay, it is also an extremely heavy material that may be prone to chipping and cracking if hit with large debris. Slate is one of the most expensive materials that roofing services can install, although it provides a century or more of protection with little maintenance.

5. Metal Roofing

Made into panels or even pressed to look like wood shingles, metal is an extremely versatile material offering many benefits and used on many homes today. Generally made from aluminum, stainless steel, zinc, or copper, metal is extremely weather resistant and durable when correctly installed by skilled roofing services. It is also lightweight, fire-resistant, and requires minimal maintenance. Metal is more costly than architectural shingles but generally less expensive than other options.

6. Synthetic Roofing

There are also a number of synthetic roofing materials available that are very durable, providing many years of watertight protection at an affordable cost. Options include rubber and plastic membranes that are usually used on flat roofs as well as polymer materials shaped to look like expensive tile or wood shingles. Many of these materials offer lightweight protection that can withstand extreme conditions, making them popular choices for a variety of installations.

Choosing the best roofing material for any home installation requires careful consideration by the homeowner as well as a careful assessment by experienced roofing services. With the right choice for the home style and climate conditions, homeowners will get the functionality they need in a look that best complements their house!

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